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Books matching: quirky villagers

28 result(s)

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Showing 1 - 10 of 28 
  1. #1

    A Murder Is Announced - Miss Marple by Agatha Christie
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    In the small village of Chipping Cleghorn, an announcement in the local newspaper about a murder to take place at Little Paddocks intrigues the residents. What starts as a possible joke or party invitation turns into a real murder attempt, leading to a complex mystery involving eccentric characters and unexpected events. The story unfolds with Miss Marple using her wit and keen observational skills to help solve the crime, revealing hidden secrets and surprising twists in a classic Agatha Christie style.

    The plot of 'A Murder Is Announced' by Agatha Christie revolves around a murder announcement that turns into a real crime, leading to a series of events that keep the readers guessing until the end. With a mix of quirky characters, clever plotting, and unexpected revelations, the book offers a glimpse into English village life post-World War II, showcasing Christie's talent for crafting intricate mysteries with engaging narratives and surprising outcomes.

    Between 7.30 and 8.30 every morning except Sundays, Johnnie Butt made the round of the village of Chipping Cleghorn on his bicycle, whistling vociferously through his teeth, and alighting at each hous...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Miss Marple )

  2. #2

    Murder at the Vicarage - Miss Marple by Agatha Christie
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    "Murder at the Vicarage" by Agatha Christie is the first in the Miss Marple series, introducing the beloved character of Miss Jane Marple. Set in the village of St. Mary Mead, the story revolves around the murder of Colonel Protheroe in the vicar's study, leading to a plethora of suspects with motives to kill him. Miss Marple, an elderly and astute observer of human nature, takes it upon herself to uncover the truth behind the murder, despite facing resistance from the police and village residents.

    Narrated by the vicar, the plot unfolds with intricate details, red herrings, and a cleverly laid out mystery that keeps readers engaged. The story showcases the village life, social dynamics, and the sharp wit of Miss Marple as she navigates through the suspects and clues to ultimately solve the murder, highlighting Agatha Christie's masterful storytelling and suspenseful writing style.

    It is difficult to know quite where to begin this story, but I have fixed my choice on a certain Wednesday at luncheon at the Vicarage. The conversation, though in the main irrelevant to the matter in...

  3. #3

    The Flatey Enigma by Viktor Arnar Ingolfsson, Brian FitzGibbon
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    'The Flatey Enigma' by Viktor Arnar Ingolfsson, Brian FitzGibbon is a murder mystery set on a small island in Iceland during the month of June, 1960. The discovery of a dead body leads to an investigation involving a mix of professionals and amateurs, with constant references to Icelandic sagas and riddles. The narrative delves into the disruptions caused by the mysterious death, intertwining ancient texts with the lives of the island dwellers and building up to a gripping conclusion.

    The novel presents a dual narrative focusing on the investigation into the death on the remote Icelandic island of Flatey and the Flatey Enigma - a set of 40 questions based on a medieval Icelandic manuscript. The story unfolds through the eyes of various characters, revealing hidden pasts, strange connections, and the unique customs of Icelandic island life in 1960. offers a blend of crime fiction and Icelandic folklore, providing readers with a rich exploration of history, legend, and a murder mystery with a twist.

    An easterly wind swept across Breidafjördur with the break of dawn, and a sharp spring breeze intensified the foam of the waves breaking on the strait between the Western Isles. A determined puffin fl...

  4. #4

    Murder in G Major - Gethsemane Brown Mysteries by Alexia Gordon
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    Murder in G Major revolves around the story of Gethsemane Brown, a talented musician who finds herself in a small Irish town, teaching at a local boys' school. She becomes entangled in a mystery when she discovers that the cottage she's staying in is haunted by the ghost of Eamon McCarthy, a composer accused of murdering his wife. As Gethsemane investigates, she uncovers deep-seated rivalries in the village and must balance solving the murder with preparing the school orchestra for a competition. The book combines elements of cozy mystery, ghost story, romance, music history, and Irish culture, creating a unique and engaging narrative. The writing style is described as snappy, entertaining, and filled with sharp dialogue between the characters, particularly Gethsemane and Eamon.

    Gethsemane Brown leaned closer to the windshield. She could just make out a thatched cottage through the gray curtain of rain pounding southwestern Ireland’s coast. The whitewashed house perched a few...

  5. #5
    Picture Miss Seeton
    Book 1 in the series:Miss Seeton

    Picture Miss Seeton - Miss Seeton by Heron Carvic
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    Picture Miss Seeton by Heron Carvic follows the story of Miss Emily Seeton, a soon-to-be retired art teacher who inherits a cottage in the village of Plummergen. The book begins with Miss Seeton witnessing a murder in London and providing a sketch to help identify the killer. She then moves to Plummergen, where she unintentionally becomes entangled in more mysteries, using her trusty umbrella to navigate through dangerous situations. The plot is light-hearted and humorous, set in a small English village in the 1960s, with quirky characters and a cozy mystery feel.

    The writing style in Picture Miss Seeton is described as entertaining, with a focus on Miss Seeton's unintentional involvement in crimes and her unique way of solving them. The book is praised for its easy-to-follow plot, comically predictable characters, and the charming nature of Miss Seeton as a naive yet astute protagonist. The story unfolds with a mix of humor, clever plot twists, and a timeless appeal that keeps readers engaged throughout.

    So colorful. Not romantic—no, one couldn’t call it that; if anything perhaps a trifle sordid. Carmen, herself, for instance, no better than she should be. In fact, if one were frank, worse. And the ot...

  6. #6

    Chocolate Wishes by Trisha Ashley
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    Chocolate Wishes by Trisha Ashley is a heartwarming story set in the village of Sticklepond, England, where the main character, Chloe Lyon, makes chocolates filled with wishes. The book follows Chloe's life as she moves to Sticklepond with her family and friends, including her ex-boyfriend turned vicar, Raffy Sinclair. The plot intertwines elements of magic, friendship, and romance, creating a light and whimsical read that explores Chloe's relationships and her connection to the village and its quirky inhabitants.

    The writing style of Chocolate Wishes is described as engaging and full of charm. Trisha Ashley's storytelling includes details about chocolate-making, the village life in Sticklepond, and the characters' relationships, providing a cozy and comforting reading experience that combines humor, love, and a touch of magic.

    You know those routines most people have, the ones they fall into automatically when they wake up? Well, until a few years ago, my morning rota had ‘read Tarot cards’ neatly sandwiched between ‘brush ...

  7. #7

    An Irish Country Christmas - Irish Country by Patrick Taylor
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    'An Irish Country Christmas' by Patrick Taylor is a heartwarming tale set in Ballybucklebo, Northern Ireland, during the early 1960s. The story follows Dr. Fingal Flahertie O'Reilly and his assistant, Barry Laverty, as they navigate the holiday season, caring for their patients and dealing with personal challenges. The book beautifully captures the essence of Christmas in a small Irish village, filled with quirky characters, festive traditions, and heartwarming moments. Readers are immersed in the charming world of Ballybucklebo, where the two doctors, along with their housekeeper Kinky Kincaid, face humorous situations, romantic quandaries, and community events that bring the spirit of the season to life.

    The narrative is enriched with vivid descriptions of Irish countryside, delightful anecdotes, and a touch of humor that keeps the story engaging and entertaining. Through the perspectives of Barry and Fingal, readers witness the joys and struggles of rural life, the bonds of friendship, and the magic of Christmas, making 'An Irish Country Christmas' a captivating read that blends nostalgia, humor, and warmth.

    Barry Laverty—Doctor Barry Laverty—slammed the door of Brunhilde, his elderly Volkswagen Beetle. He hunched his shoulders against the sleet and hurried across the car park of the Old Inn in Crawfordsb...

    (Also, see 55 recommendations for the series Irish Country )

  8. #8

    Poppy Jenkins by Clare Ashton
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    Poppy Jenkins is a joyful story of love, intrigue, passion, and mysterious meanderings through a tiny mid Wales village where Clare Ashton charmingly depicts the spectacular Welsh landscape, creating a scene that feels like an invitation to 'Visit Wales'. The book follows the rekindled connection between Poppy and her old friend Rosalyn Thorn, delving into themes of love, misunderstandings, and the complexities of small-town living. Ashton's writing style intricately weaves together past and present, creating a multi-layered odyssey that alternates between heartwarming moments and existential reflections, all set against the backdrop of a quaint village filled with lovable characters like Pip and other townsfolk.

    Poppy Jenkinshad been thinking just that morning how well life was turning out.Not perfect by most people’s standards, but Poppy wasn’t mostpeople. A riverside walk on a sunny morning, glittering with...

  9. #9

    It Takes a Witch - A Wishcraft Mystery by Heather Blake
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    In "It Takes a Witch" by Heather Blake, readers are introduced to Darcy and Harper Merriweather, sisters who discover they come from a long line of witches and are WishCrafters capable of granting wishes. The story is set in Enchanted Village, a quaint town near Salem, Massachusetts, where the sisters learn about their magical heritage and become involved in solving a murder mystery. The writing style blends elements of cozy mystery with a touch of magic, focusing on relationships, community building, and the development of the characters within a richly crafted world of witches and non-magical residents.

    It was unsettling to say the least, and I felt completely out of sorts. My outfit only added to my discomfort. The flouncy, frilly pink satin bodysuit, tulle tutu, and pink ballet slippers were a far ...

  10. #10
    High Rising
    Book 1 in the series:Barsetshire

    High Rising - Barsetshire by Angela Thirkell
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    High Rising by Angela Thirkell is a delightful novel set in the 1930s in rural England, focusing on the life of widowed author Laura Morland and her interactions with the quirky characters in the village of High Rising. The plot revolves around Laura's efforts to prevent her friend George Knox from being manipulated by his scheming secretary while also navigating through romances, social hierarchies, and the antics of her train-obsessed son, Tony.

    Thirkell's writing style in High Rising is charming, light-hearted, and filled with wit, reminiscent of classic authors like Jane Austen and Anthony Trollope. The novel offers a glimpse into a gentler time and place, providing a mix of romance, satire, humor, and mystery, all set against the backdrop of a small English village and featuring a cast of endearing characters.


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